Refinement of the Development of a Resource-Based Relative Value Scale for Psychiatrist Services

摘要

The National Institute of Mental Health has completed a contract project to develop and refine a Resource-Based Relative Value Scale (RBRVS) for psychiatrist procedures and services as a possible basis for reimbursement to this class of providers by the Medicare Part B Program. The research developed a relative value scale that establishes a numerical relationship among the various physicians' services for which payments may be made. The report describes the history of the development of similar types of scales for psychiatrist services; the research design employed in developing and refining the scale, including the various components of the scale, which establishes the values of the specific services in relation to other physician specialties; and assesses the feasibility of implementing the scale within the Medicare Part B Program.